Pakistan envoy gives 1,000 footballs to Bangladeshi schools

Dhaka: The High Commissioner of Pakistan to Bangladesh, Imran Haider, called on Education Minister Dr. A.N.M. Ehsanul Hoque Milon on June 21, briefing him on the progress of the Pakistan-Bangladesh Knowledge Corridor.

The two sides discussed collaboration in various aspects of education, including youth development, technical and vocational training, digital learning, physical education, and accreditation of educational institutions.

Haider presented the minister with a football manufactured by Sialkot-based Forward Sports. The company had earlier handed over 1,000 such footballs to the Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education for distribution across public schools in Bangladesh.

The high-quality footballs are expected to promote physical education, health, and fitness among Bangladeshi youth while also encouraging participation in a sport that enjoys strong passion and enthusiasm across the country.

During the discussions, the High Commissioner noted that Sialkot is widely recognized as a global hub of football manufacturing, producing a significant share of the world's footballs.

These include official FIFA World Cup match balls — the Brazuca in 2014, the Telstar in 2018, the Al Rihla in 2022, and now the Trionda for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The education minister commended the gesture and encouraged further collaboration in the areas discussed during the meeting.